Ryle sophomore Johnny Meiman, top, wrestles to victory in the 170 quarterfinals at the KHSAA state wrestling meet Feb. 22 at Alltech Arena in Lexington.

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While he is not as tall as most 170-pounders, Johnny Meiman knows how to come up big.

The Ryle High School sophomore was able to adjust to his opponent at the right time to win his first state wrestling championship Feb. 22 at Alltech Arena. Meiman beat Lucas Miozza of Trinity in sudden-death overtime, scoring a takedown in the final seconds of the period to win 3-1.

"I outworked him," Meiman said. "He was tired. I propped him up a little bit and I was able to get a shot on him. He was taller than me so I couldn't pick him up...the taller kids have a lot more reach on me. I just try to play it safe and tire them ...